shepherds

Sunday November 24^th, Jeremiah 23: What sorrow awaits the leaders of my people—the shepherds of my sheep—for they have destroyed and scattered the very ones they were expected to care for,” says the Lord.  How often has the word of God been used for control and power rather than God’s version and vision of good?  The metaphor of shepherds is used extensively in scripture.  A shepherd cares for, nurtures, and does what is best for the sheep.  A shepherd also learns that helping and cooperating with other shepherds is a good thing and that if all work together, all the sheep are better off.  A good shepherd does not scatter the sheep.  All too often the word of God trumpeted through the ministries of the visible representatives of God has been used to scatter the sheep.  Jesus calls us to bring together, nurture and care for one another.  Wouldn't it be nice of the political discourse took on such a tone?  We might actually find someone worth electing.